For our reflection today, I want to share the beautiful poem of Saint Francis of Assisi. The poem is popularly known as Canticle of the Sun. It is written in praise and honor of God for the gift of nature. Saint Francis composed it around 1224 while he was sick; and attended to at a little cottage built for his care called San Damiano (Saint Damian).

Reading the poem, you will see the depth of Saint Francis’ spirituality and his understanding of how nature speaks the language of praise and divinity. Hope you will find it interesting.

I pray we see in the beauties of creation the symphony of divine blessings for the praise and honor of God too, as Saint Francis did. Amen.

Most high, omnipotent, good Lord,Praise, glory and honor and benediction all, are Thine.To Thee alone do they belong, most High,And there is no man fit to mention Thee.

Praise be to Thee, my Lord, with all Thy creatures,Especially to my worshipful brother sun,The which lights up the day, and through him dost Thou brightness give;And beautiful is he and radiant with splendor great;Of Thee, most High, signification gives.

Praised be my Lord, for sister moon and for the stars,In heaven Thou hast formed them clear and precious and fair.Praised be my Lord for brother windAnd for the air and clouds and fair and every kind of weather,By the which Thou givest to Thy creatures nourishment.Praised be my Lord for sister water,The which is greatly helpful and humble and precious and pure.

Praised be my Lord for brother fire,By the which Thou lightest up the dark.And fair is he and gay and mighty and strong.

Praised be my Lord for those who for Thy love forgiveAnd weakness bear and tribulation.Blessed those who shall in peace endure,For by Thee, most High, shall they be crowned.

Praised be my Lord for our sister, the bodily death,From the which no living man can flee.Woe to them who die in mortal sin;Blessed those who shall find themselves in Thy most holy will,For the second death shall do them no ill.​Praise ye and bless ye my Lord, and give Him thanks,And be subject unto Him with great humility.

Fr. Maurice Emelu

Father Maurice provides a daily blog of reflections based on the bible readings of the day from the Catholic liturgical calendar. You will find these reflections helpful for your spiritual growth, inspiration and developing your own thoughts. It may also be helpful for ministers in preparing their sermons for liturgical celebrations.